Quesnel River Research Centre

The Quesnel River Research Centre acts as a hub of activity for a wide range of scholars who are seeking to improve understanding of topics relating to (and including human interactions with) the natural environment.

The centre was established in 2002 as western Canada's only field station focused on the highly interdisciplinary domain of landscape ecology, funded by a generous endowment from Forest Renewal BC. Our aim since then has been to support research and education spanning interactions between the life, terrestrial, freshwater and atmospheric environmental sciences, as well as socio-economic, historical and cultural studies. With this goal in mind, we offer a range of facilities and equipment, data, accommodation and local knowledge.

We welcome researchers and educators to use the QRRC as a base for studying the fascinating watershed in which it's set – in the foothills of the Cariboo Mountains, among the western fringes of the globally-unique Interior Temperate Rainforest, on the banks of one of British Columbia's premier salmon rivers, and at the outlet of what is thought to be the world's deepest fjord-lake.

Scientists currently active from the QRRC are investigating aspects of fluvial sedimentology and geomorphology, limnology, and a variety of topics relating to terrestrial and freshwater ecology and fisheries science. We also host the diverse community of scientists studying the environmental impacts of the Mt Polley tailings pond breach in 2014.

We are keen to hear of new projects and ideas which will help to generate knowledge and improve understanding related to this exceptional area's natural systems. If you are interested in conducting fieldwork, extended research, or courses / classes at the QRRC, please read our invitation to visiting scholars, or contact us for more information.